Safety and outcomes of bikini-incision DAA for hip arthroplasty with large acetabular cups (≥56 mm): A single-surgeon series of 215 cases.

INTRODUCTION

This study evaluates complications associated with the bikini-incision direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) performed by a single surgeon on a standard operating table, with a focus on cases requiring large acetabular cups (≥56 mm). Secondary objectives include assessing clinical outcomes and implant survivorship.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on primary bikini-incision DAA THAs performed by a single surgeon between 2013 and 2024. Cases involving acetabular cups ≥56 mm were included, while emergency hip fracture cases and those requiring posterolateral approaches were excluded. Clinical data, radiographs, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used to assess complications, Harris Hip Scores (HHS), and implant survivorship.

RESULTS

This study included 215 THA procedures performed on 210 male patients (mean age 67 years, BMI 28.6), with an average follow-up of 3.9 years. The primary indication was osteoarthritis (88.4%). The mean preoperative HHS was 41.8, which significantly improved to 92.6 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Complications included lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) neuropraxia (2.3%), periprosthetic fractures (0.93%), and femoral stem subsidence (0.93%). The revision rate was 0.93%, with Kaplan-Meier analysis indicating a 99% survival rate for the stem and 100% survival for the acetabular cup at the final follow-up.

DISCUSSION

The bikini-incision DAA THA using a standard operating table provides excellent short- to mid-term functional outcomes and implant survivorship for patients requiring large acetabular cups (≥56 mm). The approach is associated with low complication and revision rates, supporting its safety and efficacy in this cohort.